G 203 Evolution of the Earth

This course explores how plate motions, climate change, and other factors influence the distribution and evolution of continents and organisms through geologic time. Labs examine fossils, age relationship, stratigraphy and analysis of complex regions using geologic maps and cross-sections. Lab included.

Credits

4

Prerequisite

G 101 or G 102 or G 201 or G 202, with a grade of C- or better

General Education Requirements

Sci/Math/CS-Lab

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

1. Classify minerals, rocks and fossils, applying terminology

2. Analyze and evaluate historical processes from origins of Earth through modern climate in context of plate tectonics and the geologic timescale by applying existing models

3. Apply quantitative methods evaluating the evolution of life and plate tectonics through the fossil and geologic maps

4. Evaluate anthropogenic issues such as climate change and resource availability, citing peer-reviewed science

5. Create hypotheses regarding evolution of Earth and initial observations of fossils, rocks, and geologic maps